Five for Friday: March 8, 2024

Information Impacting Your Community

Curated by WNDD…

DOE Clean Energy and Manufacturing Workforce Training and Technical Assistance Awards

The Department of Energy (DOE) has recently released a $24 million funding opportunity for clean energy and manufacturing workforce training programs. The DOE is seeking applications from union training programs (including labor-management training programs), community colleges, trade schools, and other job training programs to establish new industrial training and assessment centers, as part of the broader Industrial Assessment Center (IAC) network. The funds can support a wide range of training programs, from micro-credentials to Registered Apprenticeships, and the funds may be used for a range of eligible costs.

Planning awards up to $200,000, execution awards up to $2 million

NOFO and Application Process

U.S. DOT Announces $1.25 Billion for Communities to Improve Roadway Safety

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has opened the process for cities, towns, counties, Tribal governments and Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) to apply for $1.256 billion in funding for local projects that improve roadway safety. The funds are from the competitive grant program, Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A). SS4A funds will help communities in the development of road safety action plans and improve unsafe roadway corridors by implementing effective interventions. Additionally, these funds can be utilized to test out safety features such as separated bicycle lanes or curb extensions at intersections.

Implementation Grant Deadlines: May 16, 2024

Planning and Demonstration Grant Deadlines: April 4, 2024; May 16, 2024; August 29, 2024

NOFO

Distance Learning & Telemedicine Grants

A new funding window has opened for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant Program. The DLT Program provides financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible applicants that will help rural communities use advanced telecommunications technology to connect to each other – and the world – overcoming the effects of remoteness and low population density. The USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is hosting two webinars to provide information about the DLT Program and will cover the recently published DLT NOSA (Notice of Solicitation).

This webinar will include:
• A brief overview of the DLT Program
• An overview of the current NOSA
• A walkthrough of the application process
• Next steps and important dates
• An opportunity to ask questions about the NOSA
Webinar Dates and Times

Wednesday, March 13, 2024, 10:00 am to 11:30 am PT
Wednesday March 27, 2024, 10:00 am to 11:30 am PT

DLT NOSA

Registration, Recordings and More

More on Traffic Safety: State Grant Opportunities

The Nevada Department of Public Safety is offering grant funds dedicated to non-infrastructure safety-related improvement projects (e.g., education, enforcement, equipment, etc.).

The FY25 grant opportunities are 5 p.m. March 15, 2024.

Grant funds are provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) for education, enforcement of traffic laws, and adoption of safe driving behaviors that support the State’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan. The Office of Traffic Safety is interested in proposals that address the following:
• Speeding and aggressive driving
• Impaired driving, riding, or walking
• Distracted driving
• Pedestrian, bicyclist, and/or motorcycle safety
• Preventing roadside deaths or injuries of first responders or in work zones
• Protecting passengers and children during vehicle operation
• Protecting children and others from risks related to being left unattended in a vehicle
• Community based traffic safety programs
• Traffic safety studies and improved data collection
• Public health partnerships and Emergency Management Services (EMS)
• New drivers, older drivers, and/or programs that reach underserved communities
Applications Due: March 15, 2024

More Info

WNDD Summit: “Show Me More Money”

March 25 and 26, 2024

The 2024 WNDD Summit will take off where “Show Me the Money” left off last year. This year’s event, dubbed “Show Me More Money,” will provide attendees with a more in depth look at navigating grant opportunities, building a successful grant application, fostering partnerships and more.

Guests include elected officials, sponsors and speakers. Expect presentations from area experts, exciting local tour, fun, food and entertainment!

Monday, March 25
Tour
3:00 to 5:00 pm

Frey Ranch Distillery Tour and Tasting

Board of Directors Dinner
6:00 to 9:00 pm

Elevated Dining Experience at the Historic Oats Park Art Center 151 E. Park Street, Fallon

Antique Bar, Cultural Exhibits
and Entertainment

Enjoy a fabulous meal and a special signature drink handcrafted with Frey Ranch Whiskey

Tuesday, March 26
Summit
9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Fallon Convention Center 100 Campus Way, Fallon

Buffet Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks

Presentations and Panel Discussions:

  • Nevada Lithium/EV Materials Loop Tech Hub Impact
  • Brownfields Grants Impact on Economic Development
  • And, more…

2024 WNDD Summit Flyer

Register Today!

Book Your Room Today!

Quality Inn
1051 W Williams Ave., Fallon
Government Rate of $107 plus tax
To get your guaranteed rate, call hotel direct at:

775.428.0300

Group Name: WNDD Summit

Five for Friday: February 23, 2024

Curated by: The Western Nevada Development District…

This edition of Five for Friday focuses on opportunities for economic development around the region in the areas of broadband, grant assistance, water infrastructure and agriculture.

Grant Opportunities & More

Last Chance! Book Your Room Today!

Room Block Thru February 25th

Comfort Inn and Suites
1830 W Williams Ave., Fallon
Government Rate of $107 plus tax

To get your room guaranteed rate, book with Crystal Schultz at the Comfort Inn and Suites before February 25. You will need to book individually and with your credit card.

Email:
Crystal.CIFallon@gmail.com

Room Rate Guaranteed for Emails received by February 25th

ReConnect Program Webinar March 6: Notice of Funding Opportunity Round 5

The ReConnect Loan and Grant Program provides funds for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in eligible rural areas. The application window for the fifth round of funding will open on March 22, 2024. Presented by USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service, this webinar will provide information about the ReConnect Program and will cover the recently published Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Round 5.

This webinar will include:

  • A brief overview of the ReConnect Program
  • The current Funding Opportunity Announcement
  • A summary of changes from NOFO 4 to NOFO 5
  • Next steps and important dates
  • An opportunity to ask questions about the NOFO

Webinar: March 6, 2024, 10:00 to 11:30 am PT

Register

ReConnect Program

New Database Web Site Tracks Grant and Assistance Programs

The White House released a new database which tracks federal financial assistance programs. This website allows visitors to explore Federal financial assistance programs across categories, agencies, eligible applicants, and more. Over the past several years, financial assistance has routinely accounted for over $3 trillion of spending and constitutes a high proportion of Federal programs.

Start Your Search

EPA’s Water Technical Assistance Ensures Equitable Access to Water Infrastructure Funding

EPA’s free Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) services support communities to identify water challenges, develop plans, build capacity, and develop application materials to access water infrastructure funding. To implement WaterTA, EPA collaborates with states, Tribes, territories, community partners, and other key stakeholders. EPA WaterTA aims to assist communities with applications for federal funding, quality infrastructure, and reliable water services. If your community is facing water infrastructure challenges, and could benefit from support, explore this option.

WaterTA Program

Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Grants

Urban Agriculture and Innovation Production (UAIP) competitive grants initiate or expand efforts of farmers, gardeners, citizens, government officials, schools, and other stakeholders in urban areas and suburbs.

Projects may target areas of:
• food access
• education
• business
• start-up costs for new farmer
Grants can cover planning activities such as developing assessments of community needs within the local food system or identifying how food is grown, distributed, or marketed and what existing needs related to food access, nutrition, education, conservation, and economic development can be addressed.

The estimated funding floor for this opportunity is $75,000 and the estimated funding ceiling is $350,000.

Application Deadline: April 9, 2024

UAIP Grants

Webinar Recordings

FAQs

Five for Friday: February 9, 2024

Curated by: The Western Nevada Development District…

This edition of Five for Friday focuses on opportunities for economic development around the region in the areas of grant information, networking, safe streets, business grants, and rural airport improvements.

Grant Opportunities & More

WNDD Summit: “Show Me More Money!”

The 2024 WNDD Summit will take off where “Show Me the Money” left off last year. This year’s event, dubbed “Show Me More Money,” will provide attendees with a more in depth look at navigating grant opportunities, building a successful grant application, fostering partnerships and more.

Expect presentations from area experts, exciting local tours, fun, food and entertainment!

Tentative Events – More Information Coming Soon!
March 25th

Tours
Naval Air Station Fallon Base Tour and Brief
Frey Ranch Distillery Tour and Tasting

Elevated Dining Experience
Catered Dinner, Antique Bar, Cultural Exhibits and Entertainment at the Historic Oats Park Art Center.
Enjoy a fabulous meal and a special signature drink handcrafted with Frey Ranch Whiskey.

March 26th
Buffet Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks
Presentations, Q and A sessions, Nevada Lithium/EV Materials Loop Tech Hub Impact Discussions

Room Block by February 25th
Government Rate of $107 plus tax
Comfort Inn and Suites
1830 W Williams Ave.
Fallon, NV

Reno Hosts FY 2024 ReConnect Program NOFO 5 Workshop

The ReConnect Program provides funds in the form of loans, grants and combination loan/grants for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in eligible rural areas.

USDA is hosting an in-person workshop in Reno, Nevada on February 27th thru 29th. The workshop will cover important information for ReConnect Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) 5 applicants including an overview of each component of a complete application, live demonstrations, office hours, and more.

More Info

Conference Registration

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

US DOT’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) discretionary program has $5 billion in appropriated funds available over 5 years, 2022-2026. The SS4A program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. Over $3 billion is still available for future funding rounds.

The next NOFO is expected to be released later this month. These funds will help communities in the development of road safety action plans and improve unsafe roadway corridors by implementing effective interventions. Additionally, these funds can be utilized to test safety features such as separated bicycle lanes or curb extensions at intersections.

Safe Streets Grant Program

Grant Funds to Boost Rural Business

USDA Rural Development offers this versatile program to support business opportunities or business enterprise projects in eligible rural areas. Uses may include establishing business support centers, financing job training or leadership development programs, the repair or modernization of buildings, creating feasibility studies, the purchase of equipment to lease to small or emerging businesses, and much more. There is no maximum grant amount; however, smaller requests are given higher priority. There is no cost sharing requirement.

There are two types of Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) projects, Opportunity grants and Enterprise grants. Opportunity type grants are limited to up to 10 percent of the total RBDG annual funding. Enterprise type grants must be used on projects to benefit small and emerging businesses in rural areas as specified in the grant application.

Contact your local office for assistance.

Application Deadline: February 28, 2024

Local Office

More Info

Matching Dollars Available for Rural Airport Improvements

The Fund for Aviation was reestablished by the 2023 legislature through AB58 at $1,000,000 per year. These funds must be used exclusively on federal projects at public-use airports within the state for the enlargement, improvement, or maintenance of rural airports, landing areas or air navigation facilities. The money appropriated through this legislation must be used by rural airports to match money that is available from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The Nevada Aviation Technical Advisory Committee (NATAC) manages these funds and was formed as a forum for discussing planning and programming issues related to the Nevada Airport & Heliport System Plan (NAHSP), providing recommendations for the administration of the Fund for Aviation, (formerly the Aviation Trust Fund).

More Info

ReConnect Program Webinar:Preparing to Apply

ReConnect Program Webinar:
Preparing to Apply

Presented by USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS), the webinar will provide information about the ReConnect Program and help prepare applicants ahead of the next Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).

This webinar will include:

  • What applicants can do now to prepare for the next NOFO
  • Registration and system requirements
  • A high-level look at ReConnect Program eligibility requirement
  • Tips on using the Application System
  • An opportunity to ask RUS staff questions about the application preparation

Representatives will address as many questions as time permits during each session. Once the NOFO is published, RUS will host a NOFO Overview webinar to include an updated list of the most common.

ReConnect Program Round 5 Webinar

January 24, 2024
10:00 am to 11:30 pm PT

ReConnect Program

Webinar Registration

ReConnect Program Round 5 NOFO Coming Soon!

Five for Friday: January 12, 2024

Curated by: The Western Nevada Development District

This edition of Five for Friday focuses on opportunities for economic development around the region in the areas of seed funding, energy, transportation, water quality and climate resiliency.

Grant Opportunities & More

America’s Seed Fund Week: January 23 to 25, 2024

America’s Seed Fund serves as a springboard by providing over $4 billion each year in funding to early-stage startups and small businesses as innovators take their technology from R&D through to commercialization, through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. In a three-day virtual workshop, attendees can deepen their understanding of America’s Seed Fund, and have the valuable opportunity to connect directly with federal agency representatives who foster its competitive funding opportunities.

Register

America’s Seed Fund Resources

Energy Efficiency Grants for Ag Producers and Small Businesses

REAP (Rural Energy for America Program) provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses in areas of 50,000 or less for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing. The upcoming deadline for the next REAP funding cycle is March 31. REAP provides Loan guarantees on loans up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs, grants for up to 50 percent of total eligible project costs, and combined grant and loan guarantee funding up to 75 percent of total eligible project cost.

Please register your interest in discussing your questions and interests in REAP Programs with State Coordinator Laura Chavez.

Register with Laura Chavez

More Info

USDOT RAISE Program Assists Local Transportation Capital and Planning Projects

The Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity, or RAISE Discretionary Grant program, provides a unique opportunity for the USDOT to invest in road, rail, transit, and port projects. RAISE allows project sponsors at the State and local levels to obtain funding for multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional projects that are more difficult to support through traditional DOT programs. RAISE can provide funding directly to any public entity, including municipalities, counties, port authorities, tribal governments, MPOs, or others in contrast to traditional Federal programs which provide funding to very specific groups of applicants (mostly State DOTs and transit agencies). Applicants may submit a total of three (3) project applications (planning and/or capital) for RAISE grants. The maximum award is $25 million and requires a 25 percent match.

Application Deadline: February 28, 2024 at 11:59:59 pm ET

RAISE Info

RAISE Webinar Series

Water Quality Protection Grants Protect Nevada’s Waterways

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) Nonpoint Source Program (NPS Program) provides grant funding to qualifying counties, conservation districts, higher education institutions, regional agencies, and nonprofit organizations to improve conditions of Nevada’s watersheds and protect against nonpoint source (NPS) water pollution. NPS water pollution occurs when rain, snowmelt and irrigation water flow over developed or disturbed land, carrying with it contaminants including oil, sediment, pesticides, bacteria and nutrients. This contaminated water makes its way into Nevada’s waterways either directly or through storm drains. Nonpoint source pollution continues to be a significant threat to Nevada’s waterways. Implementing water quality restoration projects and educating our citizens on how they can help will reduce that threat. The NPS Program is now soliciting proposals for the implementation of on-the-ground projects to mitigate nonpoint source pollution or efforts that lead to watershed plans that will allow activities to protect waters from nonpoint source pollution in the future.

Application Deadline: February 14, 2024

More Info

EPA Grants Promote Climate Resilience and Climate Justice Projects

The EPA Environmental and Climate Justice Program’s Community Change Grants (Community Change Grants) aims to support environmental and climate justice activities that benefit disadvantaged communities through projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity to respond to environmental and climate justice challenges. These place-based investments will be focused on community-driven initiatives to be responsive to community and stakeholder input. EPA is accepting applications on a rolling basis for $2 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funding available to support community-driven projects that build capacity for communities to tackle environmental and climate justice challenges, strengthen their climate resilience, and advance clean energy.

Community Change Grants

Five for Friday: 2023 a Year in Review

Curated by: The Western Nevada Development District…

In this edition of Five for Friday, we review some of the highlights from 2023 for the Western Nevada Development District and its members.

Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe – Wadsworth Multi-Purpose Center

The Tribe was awarded a $219,000 investment from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for pre-construction, environmental site review and final design activities for a new Multi-Purpose Cultural and Wellness Center in Wadsworth, the Tribe’s largest population center. The 16,455 square foot facility has been 10 years in the planning and will feature tribal offices, classrooms with a focus on workforce training and a configurable community multi-purpose room that will be ideal for small workshops and conferences. The construction plans also include a large kitchen. Construction costs are expected to be approximately $5 million, and the EDA investment will help the Tribe prepare for other state, local and federal investment opportunities.

Lovelock – USDA Reconnect Program Groundbreaking

USDA Rural Development celebrated the groundbreaking this past fall for a $27 million investment made through the USDA ReConnect Program and was awarded to Uprise Fiber to increase internet access in the City of Lovelock.

Uprise Fiber will utilize the funding to deploy a Fiber-to-the-Home network that will offer economical and dependable internet to Lovelock residents nearly thousands of times faster than their current internet, which can be insufficient for basic activities such as teleconferencing or streaming. This investment will be used to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network connecting 4,884 people, 130 businesses, 22 farms and 7 public schools to high-speed internet in Pershing County.

Part of the grant application employed WNDD’s Broadband Mapping Speed Test. The Nevada Speed Test was used to assist grant administrators and internet service providers to verify the impact of their programs and intended targets in real time without relying on out-of-date historical maps.

WNDD Announces the City of Yerington as Its Newest Member

The City of Yerington became the 7th city to join WNDD. Economic Development Districts are cities’ local connection with the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, providing locally-based, regionally driven economic development plans and grant resources for the infrastructure needed to support the strategic blueprint.

WNDD will partner with the city to improve airport infrastructure, assist workforce development and training initiatives and support Main Street projects. The City of Yerington joins the counties of Douglas, Humboldt, Mineral, Pershing, Storey and Washoe; the municipality of Carson City; the cities of Fallon, Fernley, Lovelock, Reno, Sparks, Winnemucca; and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe as WNDD members.

WNDD Annual Program Meeting

In August, the annual WNDD Program Meeting hosted nearly 40 members and guests to tour the Reno-Stead Water Reclamation Facility. Attendees received an update on the OneWater Nevada water reuse project. Lunch was held at the Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center where attendees learned about programming and toured the facility. EDA’s John Edmond and Civil Engineer, Luis Aguilar, were on hand to give some grant writing and project management tips. The EDA teams also met with the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Chairman, James Phoenix, for a tour of key economic development sites and project areas at Nixon and Wadsworth.

EDA Tech Hub Designation

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and its consortium partners, including WNDD, were successful in their application to become a designated Tech Hub by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).

EDA granted the designation to the University’s Lithium Batteries and Other EV Material Loop, which aims to build a self-sustaining and globally competitive lithium lifestyle cluster, covering extraction, processing, manufacturing, and recycling.

UNR is one of 32 new tech hubs within the states and Puerto Rico, representing a cross-section of urban and rural regions. Designation is an endorsement of the region’s plans to supercharge their respective technological industries to create jobs, strengthen U.S. competitiveness, and protect national security. The program was authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act, signed into law in August of 2022.

Tech Hub Designees are eligible to apply for the Tech Hubs Phase 2 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). In Phase 2, EDA will award implementation grants to 5 to 10 Designated Tech Hubs, with each of those Hubs receiving approximately $40 to $70 million.

Humboldt County EPA Brownfields Community Assessment Grant

This past summer, WNDD participated in the Kickoff Meeting for the Humboldt County EPA Brownfields Community Assessment Grant held in Winnemucca. The EPA’s Brownfields program provides technical assistance to communities, states, and tribes to assess, safely clean up and sustainably repurpose underutilized or blighted properties.

The redevelopment of vacant or underutilized land is an opportunity for new growth. This grant funding can be a pathway to new economic opportunities, private investment, and improved quality of life for Humboldt and Pershing County residents.

A partnership between Humboldt and Pershing counties, the grant is being administered through Humboldt County and the Nevada 95-80 Regional Development Authority. As a sub-awardee, WNDD will assist with community outreach and engagement activities. Converse Consultants is providing the Environmental Consulting Services that will lead the environmental assessment efforts, and reuse planning.

…but wait there’s more!

WNDD Planning Program Grant and CEDS Update Workshop

EDA announced in June a $240,000 Partnership Planning grant for WNDD for FY2023 thru FY2025. This EDA planning investment supports the development and implementation of a comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS) for the region served by WNDD, which consists of nine counties and seven municipalities. The CEDS process is designed to bring together the public and private sectors in the creation of an economic development roadmap to diversify and strengthen the regional economy.

WNDD members and local stakeholders participated in a workshop facilitated by the University Center for Economic Development, part of the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno to evaluate and update WNDD’s 2020 through 2025 CEDS. These funds will help sustain these collaborative regional planning efforts. Workshop participants included WNDD members and key community stakeholders who were given an opportunity to evaluate the existing strategic economic development vision, goals, and actionable items. They also prioritized projects, assessed existing local and regional socio-demographics, and economic and housing conditions. The workshop completed a revised Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis for the region, and teed up the final selection of revised priority CEDS projects for the coming year.

Shout out to Frederick Steinmann, DPPD, Director of the University Center for Economic Development for facilitating a brisk and meaningful workshop.

Mineral County and Partners Receive USDOT Thriving Communities Program Grant

Mineral County and community partners Walker River Paiute Tribe and Mineral County School District received a Technical Assistance grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Thriving Communities Program.

The County is working to implement a shared community revitalization plan by merging the community capacity needs for the Babbitt Industrial Park site with the infrastructure needs of the town of Hawthorne. The Thriving Communities Program support will help to advance local storm water infrastructure improvements to repair roadways from flooding events and improve community mobility. Through the Thriving Communities Program, USDOT selects and funds Capacity Builder teams to provide deep-dive technical assistance, planning, and capacity building support to under-resourced and disadvantaged communities across the U.S.

The goal is to assist communities with the technical tools and organizational capacity to comprehensively plan for and deliver quality infrastructure projects and community development projects that enable their communities and neighborhoods to thrive.

WNDD Summit Hits a Homerun

More than 100 were in attendance at the Western Nevada Development District Summit: “Show Me the Money — How to Get Your Next Grant” held last January at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno. Attendees learned the latest grant writing and management tools and techniques from a wide range of speakers representing state, federal and private organizations working in the grant sector.

An abundance of insight into the world of grants was shared with attendees at the Summit. Guest speaker presentations are perfect reference tools as you work towards getting that next grant for your community.

Reference Tools

Workshops with EDA’s Seattle Region Team

Members of the Western Nevada Development District along with host, the University of Nevada College of Business Center for Economic Development, welcomed Regional Director Sheba Person-Whitley and EDA Nevada Representative John Edmond from the Economic Development Administration’s Region VI Office last January for roundtable discussions and a local infrastructure tour through the City of Reno. WNDD members had the opportunity to share potential EDA grant eligible projects with the representatives, while UCED Director Fred Steinmann reviewed the Center’s work on establishing new Development Districts throughout the state and assisting communities with Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies.

The Regional Director, Nevada Representative, Storey County, NNDA, EDAWN and WNDD representatives toured the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (TRIC) in McCarran, NV the following day to show the economic growth occurring in Northern Nevada.

Thank You to Our Members and Associate Members

WNDD sends a heartfelt thank you to all of our Members and Associate Members for your support in 2023, and we look forward to continuing to serve you in 2024!

Five for Friday: December 15, 2023

Curated by: The Western Nevada Development District…

This edition of Five for Friday focuses on opportunities for economic development around the region in the areas of freight and passenger infrastructure, clean energy, rural housing loans, climate challenges and resiliency.

Grant Opportunities & More

Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE)

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has announced $1.5 billion in grant funding through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) discretionary grant program for FY2024. RAISE discretionary grants help project sponsors at the state and local levels, including municipalities, Tribal governments, counties, and others complete critical freight and passenger transportation infrastructure projects. The eligibility requirements of RAISE allow project sponsors to obtain funding for projects that may be harder to support through other USDOT grant programs.

First RAISE Webinar: December 19, 2023 at 11:30 am PT

RAISE Webinar Registration and More

NOFO

RAISE Grants

Agencies Seek Input on How Clean Energy Initiatives Can Benefit Farmers, Rural Americans

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will host a series of listening sessions this winter. The agencies invite perspectives on the benefits and challenges of the rapidly increasing levels of clean energy being sited on agricultural lands and in rural communities. SDA and DOE seek feedback directly from a diverse set of stakeholders about what the agencies can do through their leadership, program guidance, or research and information sharing to encourage positive clean energy siting outcomes that benefit farmers, rural Americans, the renewable energy industry and others.

Stakeholders can register to participate in public listening sessions that are available virtually. Register below.

Listening Sessions:

• Government Permitting and Policy Representatives (state, county, and local levels): January 12, 2024, 9:30 to 11:00 am PT

• Agricultural Producers: January 16, 2024, 7:00 to 8:30 am PT

• All Stakeholders and Members of the Public: January 16, 2024, 11:30 to 1:00 pm PT

• Rural Electric Coops and Clean Energy Developers: January 17, 2024, Noon to 1:30 pm PT

Government Permitting and Policy Representatives

Agricultural Producers

All Stakeholders and Members of the Public

Rural Electric Coops and Clean Energy Developers

Submit Written Comments by January 20, 2024

Rural Housing Site Loans Help Low to Moderate Income Families

The USDA’s Rural Housing site loans provide two types of loans to purchase and develop housing sites:


• Section 523 Loans: To acquire and develop sites only for housing to be constructed using the Self-Help method

• Section 524 Loans: To acquire and develop sites for low- or moderate-income families, with no restriction as to the method of construction
Eligible applicants are private or public nonprofit organizations that will provide sites solely for self-help housing sold to low- or moderate-income families.

You can apply through your local RD office.

Application Deadline: Ongoing

USDA Rural Development Self Help Housing Program

RD Instruction 1944-I

Nevada State Contacts

Now Open: Inflation Reduction Act Community Change Grants

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant program (Community Change Grants) are accepting applications for $2 billion in grants to fund community-driven projects that address climate challenges and reduce pollution while strengthening communities through thoughtful implementation.

This historic level of support will enable communities and their partners to overcome longstanding environmental challenges and implement meaningful solutions to meet community needs now and for generations to come.

There will be two tracks of funding under this opportunity:

Track I: will fund approximately 150 large, transformational community-driven investment grants of $10 million to $20 million.

Track II: will fund approximately 20 meaningful engagement grants of $1 million to $3 million.

Application Deadline: November 21, 2024. Reviewed on a rolling basis.

Community Challenge Grants

NOFO

Learn More About Environmental Justice

Build for the Future Funding Navigator

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Funding Navigator provides a list of funding opportunities under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), and others across federal agencies to support efforts to enhance climate resiliency, energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, healthy housing, workforce development and environmental justice in HUD supported communities, programs and properties.

You can use the tool to find open and upcoming opportunities, including funding status and where to apply, for funds to implement projects that reduce energy use and strengthen resiliency in communities.

Funding Navigator

Five for Friday: September 29, 2023

Curated by: The Western Nevada Development District…

This edition of Five for Friday focuses on events around the region which promote economic development.

Grant Opportunities & More

Futures Forum Highlights Opportunities in Pershing and Humboldt Counties – October 25, 2023

The 2023 Nevada 95-80 Futures Forum is set for October 25th at the Winnemucca Boys and Girls Club. Nevada 95-80 Futures gathers people from across the region to discuss regional economic growth and to create synergy between stakeholders.

This includes:

  • Strengthening Regional Business Networks
  • Supporting Housing Development
  • Bolstering the Local Supply Chain
  • Partnering in Workforce Development

Nevada 95-80 Futures is hosted by the Nevada 95-80 Regional Development Authority and continues to be a springboard in facilitating regional growth and expanding business opportunities.

The event is free!

Register Today!

Tahoe Entrepreneurs Take Center Stage at Venture Summit – October 20, 2023

The Tahoe Prosperity Center’s Envision Tahoe Venture Summit is an opportunity to catalyze change and take action to benefit the Basin’s unique regional economy while supporting community, quality of life, and environment. This year’s focus is on Tahoe Inc – organizing and accelerating Tahoe’s innovation ecosystem spearheaded by local entrepreneurs. The Summit will share success stories, offer creative ideas, insight and inspiration.

The Summit is scheduled for October 20th at the Tahoe Blue Event Center. The Tahoe Prosperity Center is the innovative community and economic development non-profit for the Tahoe Basin working regionally with local businesses, jurisdictions, non-profits, and community members to advance identified, data-driven initiatives that better the environment, community, and economy for everyone living and working in Tahoe.

Register Today!

Event Information

Get the Business Edge on Industrial Development – October 26, 2023

The Northern Nevada Development Authority presents the Business Edge™, signature business briefings provide information, issues, and trends of interest to the Northern Nevada business community. These breakfast events also offer opportunities to network with local business executives and management teams, elected and government officials, key workforce leaders, and important nonprofit organizations. The next briefing is slated for Oct. 26 at the Atlantis Casino Resort and will feature Industrial real estate development in Nevada. Learn from local experts about the economic benefits the region has seen from industrial real estate and construction activities and how macroeconomic headwinds: inflation, rising interest rates, labor shortage and uncertainty are expected to affect future growth.

Register Today!

Northern Nevada Small & Minority Business Mixer – October 11, 2023

Join the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council (WRMSDC) on October 11th at the Eldorado Convention Center in Reno for this exciting networking event. WRMSDC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting diversity in the marketplace. The mixer will bring corporations and government agencies together with small and diverse-owned businesses for a day of networking and connections and to meet potential suppliers.

What to Expect:

  • Rapid-Fire Corporate Opportunity Sharing
  • Informal Meet-Ups with Corporations & Government Entities
  • Resource Tables with Information to Elevate and Grow Your Business
  • Networking Connections in a Cool, Fun Environment
  • Opportunity Raffles for 1-on-1 Meetings with Corporate Representatives

Register Today!

Ready…Set…Train for Your Next Grant Application

The Governor’s Office of Federal Assistance offers free training sessions to help you access state, federal and private grant resources. These free events will be virtual (unless otherwise noted) and will take place via the Microsoft Teams Platform.

Free and Low-Cost Grant Training Resources

Grant Fundamentals Training on YouTube

More Training

2023 APA Nevada Chapter Annual State Conference

Bursting at the Seams: Planning for Growth and a Future That Unites Us All While Leading the West in Planning Excellence

October 16 thru 18, 2023

The 2023 APA Nevada Chapter Annual State Conference, “Bursting at the Seams: Planning for Growth and a Future that unites us all while leading the West in Planning Excellence”, will be held Monday, October 16, 2023 through Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at the Tahoe Blue Center in South Lake Tahoe.

This year’s Annual State Conference will focus on how communities across Nevada are dealing with growth and development.

Topics include:

  • Best Way to Keep Up! Interactive and Professional Development
  • Protecting Nevada’s Resources! Natural and Cultural Resources
  • Track What’s Going On! Technical Planning and Trends
  • A Place for all Nevadans to Live! – Housing

Early bird registration is closing soon and there is a limited number of conference rate rooms at each of the three conference hotels.

Register Today!

Full Schedule and More

In the News:WNDD Hosts Annual Program Meeting

On Monday, August 21, 2023, the annual Western Nevada Development District’s Program Meeting hosted nearly 40 members and guests to tour the Reno-Stead Water Reclamation Facility. Attendees also received an update on the OneWater Nevada water reuse project.

Lunch was held at the Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center where attendees learned about programming and toured the facility. EDA’s John Edmund and Civil Engineer, Louis Aguilar, were on hand to give some grant writing and project management tips.

OneWater Nevada